Neal and Sara invented the Clueless con as a way to date in secret. By pretending to date others who are actually avatars of themselves, they hope to foil the machinations of well-intentioned friends. At the start of Harlequin's Shadow, the con has primarily been a subject for pleasant conversation. Because of business trips, they've yet to go on a date. Even so, the con is already paying dividends.
Warning for minor spoilers to Harlequin's Shadow
Neal's initial reluctance to consider dating Sara was not just because of his poor dating history or because he was in recovery mode from a brainwashing attempt by the Mansfeld brothers. He was worried that if he were perceived to be in a relationship with Sara, he would put her at risk. The Mansfelds have targeted friends and colleagues. Sara would be vulnerable as well. A secret relationship eases those concerns. As a result, Neal is much more open with her than he's been with other women he dated about the stresses he faces.
Sara is in a lucky position. Even if Neal wanted to lock her up in an ivory castle, he's unable to do since she's a member of the U-boat con. Her participation was a slick maneuver designed by Henry. For now, she's unable to thank him without acknowledging his role in the matchmaker conspiracy, but that doesn't make her any the less grateful.
Under ordinary circumstances, Neal would never disclose to a date that a Greek goddess has a stranglehold on him. He's currently asymptomatic. Who would believe such a crazy tale? Peter insisted that Neal keep con participants informed, but he could have found a loophole. Neal decides to go ahead in part because of the poor track records both he and Sara had with earlier relationships. It's a new era of openness for Neal and not a comfortable situation.
Sara understands that. Despite being dismayed by the news, she doesn't dwell on it. In the game they're playing, she recognizes Neal is the one who's far more skittish and likely to bolt. She references their Arkham counterparts for how to cope with it, realizing it's easier for Neal to channel stress by shapeshifting into a different personality.
But is there a downside risk to the Clueless con—some lurking U-boat preparing to torpedo it? As the con proceeds, both Neal and Sara come to appreciate the hazards attached to the strategy.
Related post:
Unlucky in Love: The Clueless Con: the birth of the strategy.
Harlequin's Shadow on Archive of Our Own
Harlequin's Shadow on FanFiction
No comments:
Post a Comment